Five easy tips for a beautiful lawn

1. Cutting 

Maintaining a regular lawn-cutting routine is vital for promoting grass thickening. When it comes to mowing techniques, it is advisable to opt for frequent, smaller mows rather than a single extensive session. Varying the direction and pattern of each mow is important to prevent the grass blades from being consistently pressed in the same direction. As a general rule, aim to trim the grass stems by approximately half to two-thirds, resulting in a height of around 5 centimeters. During the peak of summer, it is beneficial to leave the grass slightly longer, as it enhances its ability to withstand dry periods.

2. Fertilizing

It is important to acknowledge that cutting the grass results in the removal of essential nutrients, which need to be replenished to facilitate optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to fertilize the lawn every four to five weeks starting from the beginning of spring. Key nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus are necessary for healthy lawn development. Specialized lawn fertilizers, containing appropriate blends of these nutrients, are readily accessible at local garden retailers. The packaging of these fertilizers provides precise instructions on the quantity to use, ensuring accurate application.

3. Watering 

To maintain a vibrant and green lawn throughout the summer, proper watering is crucial. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature and humidity levels. An indication that the grass requires water is when it starts to exhibit a blue-gray tint, and older leaf blades may curl up or wilt. For newly planted lawns, daily watering is usually necessary to facilitate seed germination and the development of a robust root system. Fortunately, watering your lawn has become more convenient in modern times. You can choose to water manually, partially automate the process, or opt for fully automated systems. GARDENA offers a range of watering solutions, including mobile and stationary options, as well as pumps and watering controls. If desired, intelligent computer-controlled systems and sprinklers can handle the task, leaving you with the simple tasks of programming and placing the sprinklers.

4. Weed control 

With persistence and the right approach, it is possible to win the battle against weeds in your lawn. Many weeds can be effectively eliminated using mechanical methods.

For smaller weeds like veronicas or white clover, using a manual scarifier frequently can disturb them and impede their growth. Daisies and dandelions, on the other hand, require removal with a root weeder. It is crucial to extract as much of the root as possible to prevent regrowth. However, if the weed problem becomes overwhelming despite your efforts, you may need to consider herbicides.

In situations where the weeds have overtaken the grass, the most effective solution is to restructure the entire soil and cover it with rolled turf. This approach provides a fresh start and helps establish a weed-free lawn.

5. Scarifying and aerification 

The roots of grass require oxygen to breathe and grow effectively. However, the soil in lawns often lacks sufficient sand content, leading to restricted airflow and stunted growth.

To address this issue, you can utilize a basic digging fork to create holes in the lawn and fill them with coarse sand. This enables surface water to drain away and provides the roots with necessary oxygen. Additionally, scarifying the lawn can help remove dead roots and debris. By eliminating lawn thatch, you create more breathing space for the lower parts of the grass, promoting healthier stem growth.